Bike Check: 9 of the Pinkbike Office Staff's Personal Rides

Mar 25, 2020 at 15:06
by Aidan Oliver  

BIKE CHECK
Pinkbike Staff Edition


We've all seen the flashy and downright bizarre bikes the editorial staff here at Pinkbike have in for testing. But what about other Pinkbike employees? What does the bike of Andy from Sales or Brie from Marketing look like? We've been showing some of the bikes through our Instagram over the last few weeks, now here they all are.



Mitch Gulliver - Sales


Mitch (and Emmy the dog) work on our sales team and recently built up this new Rocky Mountain Slayer equipped with Industry Nine wheels and Ohlins suspension.


bigquotesThe 2020 season will be my first in a long time, with a quiver of one. I'm selling off my DH & Trail bikes to make room for the Slayer. Every year, my number of days spent pedaling get closer to the days spent in the bike park. So, I thought it was time to try this "one bike to rule them all" idea. This thing is going to spend most of its days in the Whistler bike park, with the rest climbing steep fire roads in Sea to Sky.⁠⠀

A brutally sexy Slayer was the obvious choice, with a robust build to match. Carbon wheels to keep from having to true wheels weekly, Code RSC brakes paired with 200mm rotors to handle the BC descents, & the latest Öhlins suspension... because, well, its nice to try new things! oh, and it looks damn good—Mitch Gulliver


Rocky Mountain Slayer
Frame: Rocky Mountain Slayer
Shock: Ohlins TTX22 (180mm)
Fork: Ohlins RXF36 m.2 (180mm)
Wheels: We Are One Agent w/ Industry 9 101 hubs⁠
Tires: Vee Tire Snap WCE 2.35"
Drivetrain: SRAM XO1 Eagle
Brakes: SRAM Code RSC⁠
Cockpit: Chromag OSX 35 35mm and Chromag BZA 35 35mm
Size: Large
Pedals Chromag Dagga
Seatpost: Oneup 180mm dropper⁠






Kate Gayton - Operations


This is Kate and her Yeti SB130, with a burly build to tackle anything the Sea to Sky trails have to throw at it.

bigquotesMost years I've had two bikes; one more DH and one more XC oriented. This year I went with one do it all machine. Stoked on how the bike climbs and it doesn’t hold me back on the descents. As I only have the one bike, the SB130 got beefed up to suit the more technical terrain here in the PNW and the Whistler Bike Park. Sometimes I’ll also slow the rebound down a few clicks, put on DH casing tires and bigger rotors for a full day of the park or shuttles.—Kate Gayton

Yeti SB130
Frame: Yeti SB 130
Shock: Fox Performance DPX2 (137mm)
Fork: Fox Performance 36 (160mm)
Wheels: Santa Cruz Reserve 30 with Industry 9 hubs⁠⠀⁠
Tires: Maxxis Assegai Exo Front. Continental Kaiser Rear⁠
Drivetrain: SRAM GX with Raceface Oval 30 chainring
Brakes: SRAM Code R⁠⠀⁠
Cockpit: Deity Skywire carbon trail 15mm rise⁠ and Deity Copperhead 35mm⁠⠀
Size: Small
Pedals Shimano XT Clipless
Seatpost: Fox Transfer 150mm droppper⁠






Aidan Oliver - Social Media


This is Aidan who manages the Pinkbike Social Media and rides everything from bike park to singletrack on his Transition Patrol. #27.5wheels4life

bigquotes"I'm yet to become a 29er convert so last year when I was looking for a new bike, Transition's Patrol immediately caught my attention. Sturdy enough to tackle Whistler Bike Park but will gladly still take on long pedals. It's the best all-rounder I've ridden yet!⁠ I like 29ers for going fast but I love the playfulness and agility of the smaller wheels. Only upgrades I've made are some Assegai tires, Ergon seat and grips (never going back), Deity bar, stem and pedals which look and feel awesome.—Aidan Oliver

Transition Patrol
Frame: Transition Patrol
Shock: Fox Performance DPX2 (160mm)
Fork: Fox Performance 36 (170mm)
Wheels: Stans Flow (EX3 rear) with Stans Neo hubs⁠⠀⠀⁠
Tires: Maxxis Assegai Exo+ front and Double Down rear⁠
Drivetrain: SRAM XO1
Brakes: SRAM Code R⁠SC
Cockpit: Deity Copperhead 35mm, Speedway Carbon Bar 30mm rise
Size: Large
Pedals Deity T Mac
Seatpost: RockShox Reverb 170mm droppper⁠






Amar Murthi - Product Manager


This is Amar who manages new dev projects at Pinkbike as well as working on some new updates coming to the Buy and Sell soon! Get the tissues out, he's got a good story about the custom graphics on his top tube.

bigquotesThe story behind my top tube; when a good friend of mine started a decal company (@spindledsn) I sent him an idea. He came back to me with this awesome custom decal for my Megatower as a tribute to my trail dog Luna, who passed away at 4 years old. While out riding one day she collapsed and I had to carry her out of the trails and get her to a vet. After a long heartbreaking process, I found out that she would only have about 6 months to live due to heart disease... So now that she's gone, I wanted to remind myself of the pure joy she experienced when I took her out for a ride. I like to think it helps me keep her spirit with me and reminds me to just enjoy the hell out of every ride because you never know when it will be your last.” And how do you like the ride? “I came from a previous generation Hightower LT, so the Megatower has been a natural move forward for me with its more progressive geometry, it's perfect for shuttle days, park days, and trail rides where I'm rewarded with a nice chunky descent after a long climb.—Amar Murthi


Santa Cruz Megatower
Frame: Santa Cruz Megatower
Shock: Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate (160mm)
Fork: Fox Performance 36 (170mm)
Wheels: Easton Arc with DT swiss 350 hubs⁠⠀⠀⁠
Tires: Maxxis Minion DHF / DHR⁠ EXO
Drivetrain: SRAM XO1
Brakes: SRAM Code R⁠SC
Cockpit: OneUp 35mm ride bars and OneUp EDC Tool stem
Size: Medium
Pedals OneUp Composite
Seatpost: RockShox Reverb 150mm droppper⁠






Max Barron - Videographer


This is Max who is one of the videographers here at Pinkbike. To add some variation to the mix he's showing off his Chromag dirt jumper.

bigquotesGrowing up in the riding scene on Vancouver Island, I had one rule. Always own a hardtail. Some of the best memories of my life have been spent on this bike. From riding the legendary dirt jumps spots in my home town of Nanaimo, to insane after work sessions at joyride 150, to the Riverside jams in Whistler. I take this bike with me everywhere I go and it has led me to meet some amazing people from all over the world. Now, at 27 years old I have dove full force into trail and DH riding but dirt jumping will always be my favourite part of the sport. As bikes come and go I will stay true to my rule, always have a hardtail.—Max Barron

Chromag Monk
Frame: Chromag Monk
Fork: RockShox Argyle, lowered to 90mm
Wheels: Rear: Hope Pro 2 hub with Stans Flow Front: Halo Chaos hub with Halo Chaos
Tires: Maxxis Ikon
Drivetrain: Shimano Saint Cranks, single speed
Brakes: Avid Juicy7
Cockpit: Chromag OSX bar⁠ and Chromag Ranger Stem
Pedals Chromag Contact
Seatpost: Chromag Domolite





Jason Lucas - Video Production


This is Jason Lucas who heads up video production at Pinkbike and his Rocky Mountain Altitude.

bigquotesMy Altitude is my do it all machine. I’ve taken it on everything from all-day epics to massive lift access days and it hasn’t held me back at all. Fun little fact, I used to work at Rocky Mountain and it is really awesome knowing the people that designed the bike you’re riding. The stock spec was pretty dialed, but I like to make my bikes my own so I slapped on some Rockshox suspension, a set of Code brakes and added a smattering of Chromag bits and bobs. The result is my favorite bike I’ve ever owned.—Jason Lucas

Rocky Mountain Altitude
Frame: Rocky Mountain Altitude
Shock: Rockshox Super Deluxe Ultimate (150mm)
Fork: RockShox Lyrik Ultimate (160mm)
Wheels: RaceFace ARC 30⁠⁠⠀⠀⁠
Tires: Maxxis Minion DHF/DHR⁠II EXO
Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle
Brakes: SRAM Code R⁠SC
Cockpit: Chromag BZA bar and stem
Size: Extra Large
Pedals Chromag Contact
Seatpost: Fox Transfer 170mm dropper⁠







Andy Daly - Sales


This is Andy from the Sales team and his Santa Cruz Bronson. Fun fact, Andy is also a volunteer Fire Fighter in Squamish, which how he got the nickname 'Flaming Elmo'.

bigquotesThe Bronson is the perfect weapon of choice for the mix of steep, rocky, loamy single track found in Squamish and the Sea to Sky region. Add to this a few days in the Whistler bike park each year and it’s a solid all-rounder. The SRAM Drive train is stock but I beefed it up with a 170mm Lyrik, added some Code RSC brakes, Raceface Next R carbon bars and Turbine wheelset. Topped off with a OneUp Components’ EDC tool, comp pedals and grips. It’s a no fuss, get’er done build.—Andy Daly

Santa Cruz Bronson
Frame: Santa Cruz Bronson
Shock: Rockshox Super Deluxe R (150mm)
Fork: RockShox Lyrik (170mm)
Wheels: RaceFace Turbine R⁠⁠⠀⠀⁠
Tires: Continental Der Baron, Der Kaiser
Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle
Brakes: SRAM Code R⁠SC
Cockpit: Raceface Next R Carbon and Truvativ Descendant
Size: Large
Pedals OneUp Composite
Seatpost: RockShox Reverb 170mm dropper⁠








Brie Forster - Marketing and Events


This is Brie from our marketing and events team. Brie has been riding since 2018 but is already an addict and can be found riding the trails in Whistler and Squamish.

bigquotesThe Santa Cruz Nomad was the dream bike I had no idea I wanted or needed in my life. I was very new to the sport when a leader in the industry offered me to take a test ride on this through Whistler Bike Park. After that ride I knew there was no going back. To me, its the perfect bike for Whistler and Squamish, which is where I do most of my riding.—Brie Forster

Santa Cruz Nomad
Frame: Santa Cruz Nomad
Shock: Rockshox Vivid Air (160mm)
Fork: RockShox Lyrik (165mm)
Wheels: SRAM Rail 50⁠⁠⠀⠀⁠
Tires: Maxxis Minion DHF⁠
Drivetrain: SRAM XO
Brakes: SRAM Guide
Cockpit: Truvativ Descendant
Size: Small
Pedals Chromag Contact
Seatpost: RockShox Reverb 150mm⁠






Sarah Lukas - PR & Marketing


This is Sarah from our marketing team and her Trek Fuel. Sarah rides a lot of MTB but can also be found donning skinny tires and contributing to our sister site CyclingTips.

bigquotesI grew up racing XC in Wisconsin, and those endurance days are still very much a part of me. I suppose you could say I’m downcountry? I brought a little bit of the Wisco disco with me to Squamish with my Trek Fuel Ex 9.8. I’m 5’4” and loving the 29er; I don’t think I can ever go back. Swap out the build and this would also serve as the perfect race bike for BCBR. Plus, this stealthy steed climbs like a dream - I personally like to drop the guys on e-bikes during staff rides.—Sarah Lukas

Trek Fuel 9.8
Frame: Trek Fuel 9.8
Shock: Fox Performance Float - Re:aktiv
Fork: Fox 34 Float⁠⠀
Wheels: RaceFace Next SL carbon⁠⁠ and Vault hubs⠀⁠
Tires: Vittoria Martello 29x2.35
Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle⁠
Brakes: SRAM Guide
Cockpit: RaceFace Affect and Bontrager Line Pro carbon
Size: Medium
Pedals Shimano XTR
Seatpost: Bontrager Line Elite 150mm⁠





You can pick up the Pinkbike tube straps and fenders here


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276 Comments

  • 268 5
 Surprised no one is riding the GRIM DONUT.
  • 31 0
 Yes, it should be in production by now?
  • 85 0
 Notice Kazimer and Levys bikes weren't in the article, I reckon they both own pre-production models by now
  • 40 0
 @ctd07: this is a bunch of the PB crew but not the technical editors. Smile
  • 16 0
 Maybe Mike broke it already and he's to bummed to be part of the year book pictures.
  • 6 21
flag WAKIdesigns (Mar 27, 2020 at 1:02) (Below Threshold)
 @brianpark: Yes... do you use "technical" as synonym to "gnarly"?
Is Kate your company medic?
  • 13 2
 @imbiker: If they did, Pole and Rocky Mountain will strike back. In fact, if it will make it to production both brands will purchase one and subject it to their own huck to flat and half inserted rear axle tests.
  • 11 26
flag chyu (Mar 27, 2020 at 3:19) (Below Threshold)
 Trek bikes are like Chanel handbags. They are timeless.
  • 1 2
 @vinay: is that the story on the Rocky? They say the axle was only halfway in?
  • 3 1
 @powderturns: Nah, RM got the frame back and investigated it, but I don't think they ever published what went wrong nor are the obliged to do so. Frame broke, shit happens. I was just kidding. Bike brands have it tough sending pre-production products (so which may still have minor mistakes to be resolved) to reviewers and then when it breaks they get a lot of stick (mostly through the audience). So my thinking was that if they are in the position to give back some love they'll grab it. And a half inserted axle would have lead to a comparable failure to what the RM got. But I was kidding (or trolling if you will), I'm sure they won't break it on purpose to make themselves look better.
  • 14 1
 It's almost April 1st....The GRIM DONUT is coming!
  • 7 0
 @brianpark: We would like to see a round up of what the various Tech Editors around the world are riding.
  • 2 0
 @yvidal: Yeah, sucks. How do you get to fool people if you can't even meet up? Or at least enjoy their initial reaction. I'd recommend to postpone April 1st until at least after the first actual (not Zwift) WC race from now. I'm fine if they just kick off April with April 2nd this year. It is leap year after all so it isn't too bad. April 1st will probably somewhere in November considering the modified race schedules.

@thedirtyburrito: Everyone is an armchair engineer around here, so that might qualify.
  • 11 0
 What I wanna know, is how many lawns Jason Lucas had to mow to get that sweet rig!!
  • 9 5
 @landscapeben: he inherited a cabin in Whistler from Nigerian Prince after he's been eaten by a Tiger. It turned out poor bugger had a massive stock of toilet paper and bleech in an underground shelter.
  • 1 0
 @WAKIdesigns: lol
  • 3 0
 @ctd07: Here's the twist. they don't ride. they don't even like bikes. This site and everything we know as gospel are all false.
  • 6 2
 Im also surprised there is a disproportionate number of E-bikes compared to the number of articles they are trying to shove down our throats!!!
  • 7 0
 Aren’t the tech editors riding 2000 dollar value bikes?@brianpark:
  • 11 0
 @dldewar: All day, every day
  • 4 0
 @mikelevy: Grim D $2000 retail price confirmed? Level T brakes and a Recon RL to keep inside the budget.
  • 2 0
 Assume that there is a QR rear end also to keep below 2K. Rumour also has it that it will be equipped with blowout trust front forks and gen 1 light skin 2.1 racing Ralph’s in wire bead. @PhillipJ:
  • 93 4
 I assumed the dog in the first shot was to hide a snapped Rocky Mountain Slayer frame.
  • 6 3
 Solid burn!
  • 1 0
 I wondered what that was about, still I liked that he made the bike his own. Best bike though was the 2016 Nomad, she got what she liked and she's sticking to it. And someone should tell the buy with the Bronson that SC make a bike called the Nomad...probably would have saved him some time.
  • 73 1
 No Shimano anywhere... Does it rain SRAM in Squamish?
  • 64 12
 Guess they all getting SRAM junk for major discount..
  • 19 2
 Saint cranks on the monk. It a little but not much. I’m more concerned about the juicy 7.
  • 22 1
 There is a SRAM service center in squamish that I am sure provides the staff with good discounts and even better support.
  • 14 89
flag thenotoriousmic (Mar 27, 2020 at 7:34) (Below Threshold)
 @CantClimb: Come off it mate, the only people running shimano are the people who can’t afford sram. Given the choice nobody’s picking shimano.
  • 71 7
 @thenotoriousmic: I’d pay extra for Shimano.
  • 20 13
 @thenotoriousmic: oh no its retarded
  • 4 0
 @T-Bot: Hey Juicy 7's were incredible brakes (...compared to Juicy 3s)!
  • 1 2
 I know right?! Lame.
  • 1 0
 @T-Bot: Juicy 7 was a lucky one hit wonder for Avid. Bookended by years of crap brake models. Hunted a 7 down for my DJ and ran it for years.
  • 3 1
 @thenotoriousmic: Most of the UCI [road] teams run Shimano, unless they are sponsored directly by SRAM...if that tells you anything.
  • 2 0
 @T-Bot: Well, don't worry, it actually looks like an Elixir, not a Juicy.
  • 6 14
flag thenotoriousmic (Mar 27, 2020 at 12:18) (Below Threshold)
 @SvenNorske: yeah that road bikes are still 15 years behind mountain bikes. They’ve only just got disk brakes. Also it’s a completely different sport I use shimano on two of my other bikes xt and slx and it’s fine for pedalling around on I’m sure it’s more than capable for road cycling it’s Sram works better lasts longer and less maintenance required.
  • 3 1
 Shimano haters - gotta love em
  • 1 3
 @CantClimb: FACTS. I've never ridden a worse group set than anything sram. Heck, i'll take a m6000 1x10 deore over an XO1
  • 1 1
 @MTBrandonLee: Haha yeah course you would.
  • 1 0
 @thenotoriousmic: lol. You think I would pick a hunk of crap over Deore. Yes. Deore is better here.
  • 1 1
 @MTBrandonLee: Your bait is about as convincing as shimano’s bite point. Try harder.
  • 51 1
 How about a PB dog check?
  • 15 0
 Excellent idea.
  • 12 0
 Emmy's in!
  • 11 0
 Yes!!!!
  • 3 1
 I'm not crying, just the wind in my eyes after Amar's bike check...love biking with Molly my 4 year old ridgeback. She gets so excited as I get our gear ready to go!
  • 39 0
 That’s a Megatower not a Nomad. Need more coffee ?
  • 2 0
 ^This. Looks like Amar might need to FaceTime Aidan for a little chat.
  • 11 1
 They all look the same man, half a degree there, a few mm there, hey a BRAND NEW CATEGORY OF BIKE !!
  • 1 0
 Santa Cruz Nomad
Frame: Santa Cruz Megatower

well ya see it's a mega tower in disguise
  • 43 9
 Is pinkbike sponsored by SRAM for brakes? They are not very popular around these parts except for OEM.
  • 26 8
 I’m on my first set (Guide RE) after pretty much ten years on Shimano. The m8000 and m7000 on my last two bikes have put me off Shimano for a very long time with the wandering bite points.
These Guide REs are faultless. The finish is a bit shit with paint coming off the levers from wear but that’s it. The XTs did three years and still looked like new. That’s anodising over paint I guess.
  • 2 1
 Thought the same..?
  • 6 1
 @jaame: yeah, the Guide RE are really good powerful brakes. I think I prefer them to the new Code I have in my downhill bike. Would prefer Shimano bleed procedure and mineral oil (prob why the paint comes off the SRAM brakes). Would like to try the TRP quadium with the big 220mm rotors
  • 22 0
 SRAM’s newer brakes have a really good feel and are holding up well. I ended up with Code RSCs on my bike after initially planning Saints; I ended up just liking them better, to my surprise.
  • 22 1
 Code RSC are by far the best brakes I have ever had. I've been on them for two years now and have zero need to switch to anything else.
  • 4 1
 @jaame: that's most likely DOT fluid vs. Mineral oil while bleeding. DOT fluid (especially old/used fluid) eats paint like mad, and tarnishes almost any finish.
  • 6 1
 @jaame: I'm in the same boat of being way turned off Shimano with the wandering bite point on my M7000s. I just can't fathom SRAM pricing though, even their absolute lowest end Guide is over $200 USD for a full set...no thanks. The low end Shimano stuff functions just as well as XTRs in terms of getting you stopped, but I've heard from many people that the Guide T and R simply isn't powerful enough.

I'm honestly considering going back to mechanical, a properly set up pair of Spykes or BB7s with compressionless housing and sintered pads is more than powerful enough, and although the bite point wanders very slowly, it just takes a quick turn of the barrel adjuster to fix.
  • 9 0
 Brakes seem even more of a touchy subject than wheelsizes! I love my Codes. They work flawlessly with limited maintenance, which also matches my experience with other Sram brakes in the past. I've tried recent versions of XT, Saint, and SLX and they all suffered from wandering bite point, frequent pad changes and bleeding to keep operating at full power. I can get away with changing pads and bleeding once per year with Sram vs every three or four months with Shimano to maintain good feel and power.
  • 3 0
 @Smokey79: I got mine on a bottom spec Capra about six weeks ago. I've never bled them. The paint is coming off from finger rub on the levers because they are painted. I did one particularly wet and dirty uplift day at Revolution that also killed the headset bearings, rear mech clutch and chain. It's just wear, but the anodising on Shimano brake levers never seems to wear.
The paint on the guide master cylinders also looks like it took a couple of scratches from shuttle rub. The finish is pretty shitty... But who cares when they work so well?
Shimano has a much better finish but that wander is a deal breaker... And will continue to be for years after they fix it.
  • 1 1
 @Smokey79: they’re the old code calliper which has more power than the new code but with guide levers. I think they’re were brought back for ebikes. Class brakes bit the old guide rsc / ultimate lever would be a good upgrade if you can find them cheap.
  • 9 8
 @mnorris122: I’ve never felt put the “wandering bite point” all of you guys seem to be getting, maybe I just get used to the way my brakes feel really fast, or maybe I don’t drag my brakes down the hill the entire time I ride??? Or maybe it’s a made up thing, like how some large chunk of the population will still have positive effects from a placebo, even when they know it’s a placebo?
  • 4 1
 @unrooted: there is a series of 4 steep af rock rolls near me; the first two are one right after the other, then a bit of a break, then the other 2 in quick succession. Absolutely terrifying when, after being hard on the brakes for the entirity of the first two, you slam them on right before the third and the bite point is way further out than when you grabbed it before the first one.
  • 3 1
 @mnorris122: I have a set of the m7000 on my spare/commuter ht that had the wandering issue until I did a gravity bleed on them - they have been solidly consistent ever since.
  • 1 0
 @jaame: Yeah, mine have paint flaking off also
  • 2 0
 @thenotoriousmic: Defo a good call with the rsc/ultimate levers.
  • 5 0
 nah code rsc have been the best brakes for years
  • 1 2
 @unrooted: I’ve got them on both my m8000’s and m7000’s I think it’s and issue with the ceramic pistons leaking over time. I have to do a lever bleed on mine every four or five rides to stop it from happening. I only run them on my hardtails now. They’re too much of a liability at full suss speeds.
  • 1 0
 I know seriously. I just complained that ALL the drive trains were SRAM! WTF??
  • 3 0
 @i-am-lp: then you never used magura i guess?
  • 6 0
 @thenotoriousmic: There is an issue with those ceramic pistons having microcracks and leaking. I had a small bin going of m8000's and shimano never admitted it was a problem. Shop would order calipers off of amazon (cheaper than cost from shimano) to replace. Keep an eye on it, or else you're gonna go to brake and realize your pads are soaking in mineral oil and useless halfway through a ride.

Pistons are a separate problem from the wandering bite point, which certainly exists. I've met very few riders who haven't experienced it, and exactly zero mechanics who don't acknowledge it's an issue.

I'll only run shimano brakes on road/gravel bikes because of the rollback to reduce pad rub on the itty bitty rotors on those kinds of bikes. I'll only run sram on MTB for the consistency. It hasn't always been this way...

For those complaining about the drivetrains being SRAM...these bikes aren't all brand new off the lot bikes. SRAM had a stranglehold over OEM spec with eagle for a little while now, it may get some pushback in this and next year's spec though.
  • 2 2
 @parkourfan: I know mate. I have a rear m7000 that’s got a slow leak. I have to pour a boiling kettle over the calliper and rotor to stop it howling. I think it’s because the pad moves around inside the calliper bending forwards and backwards. Going to replace it with a slx 4 pot. Shimanos cheap and it does the job but it doesn’t last and it’s nowhere near the quality of sram. I’ve got out abused my guide rsc’s. They’re so much better and once bled you don’t have to touch them again other to realign the calliper.
  • 5 0
 @unrooted: word on the street is that people who have never experienced the wandering bite point don't ride on dirt, and they all ride really slowly. Some of them allegedly even wear pink tutus to ride down the canal bank.
  • 2 1
 @jaame: I only ride my bike to Grindr hookups. Maybe that’s why my brakes work so well?
  • 2 1
 @parkourfan: conversations like this is why I bit the bullet and went Trickstuff.

Expensive as hell yes (I bought one at a time). But they just work same feel at the lever every single time.
And completely rebuildable every part can be bought separately.

Only problem is you never get to talk about brake problems anymore.
I just read the comments and think sucks to be you.
  • 1 1
 @parkourfan: and yes I had xt 2 pot before and had the same bite point problem.
Funny thing though I stripped out the master cylinder and had to order a $13 shimano mt200 lever while waiting on my second Trickstuff brake.

The mt200 lever had zero problems with wandering bite point. In actuality the mt 200 was quite nicenmated to a m8000 caliper.
  • 1 0
 @reverend27: Those basic style levers, as well as the XT trekking and XTR race levers generally don't wander from what I've seen. Race levers will change in feel as the pads wear though. And it's not like shimano mtb brakes are unliveable across the board, but there's other options that don't have those problems.

Don't know why it'd suck to be me, I haven't had brake problems in years - I just have a decent idea of what common problems there are on the market at this point. Personally, I like to have a consistent bite point and the ability to advance the pads with fluid as needed without the system going batshit, like shimano. I have the SRAM master kit of spare parts for guides as well - It's not like other companies aren't rebuildable. But, at a price point and nice build a la trickstuff, I'd hope you're keeping those long enough that you'll actually need to rebuild them.

And, I'd say that only being able to afford one brake at a time counts as talking about a "brake problem" no?
  • 1 0
 @parkourfan: sorry wasn't trying to be a dick. I see now it came off that way.

And ya it was kind of funny to have the most expensive lever on one hand and one of the cheapest at $13 on the other.

And sorry I wasn't talking only about you just the whole brake conversation.

Wandering bite points leaking pistons inadequate modulation or inadequate power.
Running shimano only on road or commuter bikes.
Sram calipers locking up in the sun cheap finish and using dot fluid.

Mine use sunflower oil I could put the shit on a salad.

Last I am a one bike guy these brakes will be with me for the foreseeable future same as my King hubs ( barring some new standard).

Anyway I should not have typed the sucks to be you part and I knew it as soon as I hit send.

Ride what works for you get out enjoy the day and ride with a smile on your face. Safely.
  • 1 0
 @reverend27: No worries my man. My only dig would be that you sure don't need brakes where you're at, I grew up in stillwater. west sunset ave.

Dot fluid absorbs moisture and doesn't let it sit down next to the pistons, which is a plus. Great performance in freezing temps as well. There's pros/cons to all the fluids, but I will say the corrosive properties of DOT are very overstated IMO. Sure, some hayes 9's that have sat around since they came out will rot out the piston plugs, and I did get some OG magura hydraulic rim brakes running that *hadn't been bled, ever* last season - but the truth is, most of the parts old enough to see issues will see the bin before they start having problems stemming from the fluid type.
  • 1 0
 @parkourfan: haha McMurtry offers plenty of challenges.
If you lived here and didn't ride McMurtry you missed out.

Small world though I was talking to Rich Drew on facebook last night right after I finished uploading strava..there I was one spot behind him. He said there's alot of great trails here and plans on coming back.
  • 2 1
 DoT fluid is obviously not that bad. Car and motorcycles all use it and have done for decades. Planes probably use it too.
You never read a review saying "yeah the new Range Rover is a beast... But why did they stick with that dot fluid? It rots your paint!"
  • 3 1
 @jaame: completely different experience pouring fluid into a reservoir on a car vs bleeding mtb brakes.
  • 2 1
 @reverend27: Not really. How about motorcycles then? Most people here that comment on the properties of DOT have never wrenched on anything in their lives, it's just easier to mimic the sentiments of others.
  • 2 1
 @fodermonk: nah, I'm with reverend27 on this, dot fluid is a pain messing around with syringes (yes, it does take SRAM crappy paint off). Not the same as filling car/bike reservoir. Most brake manufacturers using dot fluid use it as dot fluid is standardized, i.e dot 4 Shell is the same as dot 4 Mobil. But Mineral hydraulic oil is not. Just for the record, aviation industry uses both mineral and synthetic hydraulic fluids. If u use quality mineral fluid for brake application, it wins hands down.
  • 1 1
 @fodermonk: I do everything myself self except wheel building and shim stacks.
  • 17 1
 Jason Lucas' Rocky looks tiny next to him...!

But probably I'm simply too used looking at 29" bikes...
  • 16 2
 27.5” ain’t dead!
  • 2 4
 @jasonlucas: 27,5? As a rear wheel, maybe... ;-)
  • 16 0
 Whoa! Lotta flat pedal fans there on your staff PB!! :-)
  • 2 0
 yep!. love those OneUp composites.
  • 1 5
flag wobblegoblin (Mar 27, 2020 at 7:55) (Below Threshold)
 You obviously have never been to Squamish...
  • 13 0
 Clips 4 lyfe ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
  • 6 2
 #onlyflats
  • 13 0
 So most of the PB crew on 27.5. Despite the 2 Mike's best efforts to demonize smaller wheels ????
  • 9 3
 Yes, nailed it. I won't quit, though.
  • 12 0
 nice how you reused the Santa Cruz pic for the Trek bike check.
  • 1 1
 ..
  • 22 10
 Max with the DJ wins my seal of approval
  • 3 2
 And the only HT rider. I'm slightly surprised.
  • 3 1
 No doubt several of them own more than one single bike so they could very well have a hardtail too. Just that when asked to highlight one of their bikes, most of them chose to show their full susser.
  • 3 0
 He had me at Juicy7
  • 2 0
 @audioshnoll: I had a pair of Juicy 7s and what is mounted on Max bike is something different. I think he is running Elixir 7s.
  • 2 0
 @audioshnoll: How long are disc brakes supposed to last? I'm running Magura Louise 2006 masters with Louise 2007 brake calipers (because my current frame and fork won't accept IS calipers anymore). I've been using the Louise 2006 calipers until spring 2018 though so the 2007 calipers haven't seen that much use yet. Either way, brakes don't wear that easily that they'll need regular replacement, do they?
  • 1 0
 @Ttimer: yeah I thought the same when I looked at the lever, had my fair share of juicys and codes. Now I run Sram Guides and it feels like I've had better days...
  • 2 0
 @audioshnoll: True. New bike came with Guides. Not impressed. Feels like the Juicys from long ago were at least as powerful.
  • 3 2
 @Ttimer: Guides are an excellent brake for a XC bike because of how much modulation they have. so they go very well with tires with little knobs where you have to be extra sensible. But everything else... screw that brake. As soon as power is required they suuuuuuck. I am in awe how company that does so many things worse than anybody else, can make the Code brake which is in top 3 best brake systems out there.
  • 1 0
 Just like most dirtjumpers I know-- different front and back wheels. Actually half of my bikes are like that.
  • 7 0
 You weren't joking about grabbing the tissues. Sorry for your loss Amar. I couldn't imagine my trail pup leaving me at 4 years old or seeing her collapse on the trail. So cool of your friends to create the graphic so her memory rides on!
  • 12 3
 Interesting that the Pinkbike staff pushes the 29er koolaid on everybody in every article, but they don’t seem to be drinking it themselves!
  • 18 2
 Take off the tinfoil hat Wink
  • 8 0
 @mikelevy: it’s a tinfoil helmet for the record!
  • 6 0
 I personally liked Matt Wragg’s bike checks and Mike Levy’s RM Element from a few years back. Matt stuck to some proven components and Mike had a mix-and-match drivetrain that proved to be just as reliable. Good info for us rung-what-ya-brung riders.
  • 2 0
 That Rocky Element was a lot of fun! I think there were four different brands making up my drivetrain (if you include my HT pedals), brakes from TRP, an MRP fork, etc. Different is interesting Smile
  • 10 0
 What is going on with Bries grips? Waffle at the top for extra pain?
  • 2 0
 This needs to be addressed!
  • 6 0
 "[pinkbike staffer]'s garage" would have been way more interesting.
Do a bunch of articles where each member of staff gets to show all their bikes + motorbikes + cars + scooters + pets + skateboards + atvs + hiking boots?
  • 2 0
 Yeah a pb version would be cool, I would call it ‘Cranks and Con-Rods’.
  • 11 0
 NSMB has a great series done by AJ called 'Pivots and Pistons' that does exactly this. Check it out Smile
  • 6 0
 I like how Amar stuffed his Tubolito into that rocker link. I just bought a few of these to replace conventional tubes in our family fleet. Need all the help we can get shedding grams where we can.
  • 3 0
 Have you had to use the tubolito after it's been on the bike for a while? I am interested in these but I am concerned about the reliability. It seems like there are quite a few where the valve fell apart.
  • 4 0
 Always like seeing what people in the biz like to ride, but that aren't necessarily sponsored. I feel like it gives some insight into what works for people and what doesnt. I'd be really curious to see what parts are custom and what are OEM. Sram clearly has the drivetrain and brake OEM game locked down in this article. Lots and lots of chromag and race face for obvious reason. Very surprised to see Vittoria, Continental and Vee Tire and zero Schwalbe/Michelin/Specialized.
  • 1 0
 Oneup Composit Pedals. Best bang for the buck to Grip ratio.
  • 3 0
 I’d also love to see what they would ride if they didn’t get pro-deals...
  • 1 0
 @unrooted: for what its worth... in our shop we can get PUD (personal use discount - or - pro deal) on damn near anything we want so that levels the playing field when it comes to decision making time. I dont know if these guys have access like that, I'm sure they do being pinkbike and all. I was mostly surprised with tire decisions.
  • 1 0
 @Trudeez: I have acces to a few pro deals myself, including continental...but I still buy Maxis for me and Schwalbe for my wife...
  • 7 0
 But...but I though if it wasn't a 29r it wasn't a bike anymore
  • 4 0
 I dig the "kinda old school" Nomad. That thing was a beast of a fast, capable bike and way ahead of its time. It's hard for me to beat times I laid down on my 2014 Nomad on my current longer, slacker, 29" bikes.
  • 2 0
 www.pinkbike.com/news/santa-cruz-nomad-review-2014.html
  • 2 0
 Massively biased, but totally agree. The Nomad 3 is a superb bike, especially in the miami vice colour.
  • 6 0
 Curious, excluding the DJ, 8 bikes, 50/50 29 or 27.5.
  • 3 0
 The RM slayer is a 27,5 here, not a 29.
  • 15 1
 @jurassicrider: Yeah, I couldn't quite make it out...It's interesting because if you base it on what we hear in the media, every man and his dog is on a 29er. My experience is also that in reality there is a roughly 50/50 split.
  • 1 3
 The 27.5wheels4life hastag from Adian surprises me. Unless you're quite new to the sport, you've already left another wheelsize behind. What's it worth claiming you're going to stick with a certain wheelsize for the rest of your life?
  • 10 0
 @vinay: I'm not new (30 years) and I'm still rocking 26 Wink Won't be for life mind...
  • 8 1
 @carlitouk: The media makes it look like everybody is on a 29er, it's in their best interest to do so.
  • 6 0
 More bike checks please!!!
  • 7 3
 People are still commenting on SRAM brakes. OK, you like Shimano better. Get over it and let the rest keep riding with SRAM. They're great - by the way, I am riding Shimanos.
  • 7 0
 Flaming Elmo
  • 5 0
 Bronson 160mm rear shock ???
  • 3 2
 Sarah Lukas, did you say staff ride ebikes?!.....LOL yes, they are awesome fun to ride - At 58 that's how I ride with my son's when we're doing steep ups to go down in SoCal. And keep the HR at manageable levels for a middle aged guy who isn't an ex cat 1 rider. And ride the next day. And the day after that.
(2018 Levo Mullet wheelset - 160/135 travel)
  • 5 2
 Don't let these guys fool you... As some of these guys become dads, they are starting to see some value in the ole e-bikes if they want to keep up. Wink

I have heard some amazing stories from being able to join rides, or from riders (like Davis Phinney) who have Parkinsons that are now able to ride again. Keep shredding!
  • 1 2
 @sarahlukas: Right on! I love my Levo - it has made riding so much fun...I still have a 29er and a park DH bike but my enduro riding has become better as I've still got some gas in tank when I get to the top!
Hey I still have my 1993 GT RTS 3 hanging in the garage...not a newby MTB rider...just a guy that is using eMTB to maximize riding enjoyment. Letting the haters hate, but they'll get old one day :-)
  • 1 0
 @GeneralGroovus: Hell ya! We all have our e-pinions, but I'm all for getting out however you want to. I am a lover of all 2-wheels, even the skinny-tire ones and the wheels for my woofers' wheelchair. Big Grin
  • 5 0
 Yo - how tall is Jason, 6'10"?! he makes that XL frame look TINY
  • 5 0
 this explains why there isn't much XC on PB
  • 4 1
 PB in reviews: *anything but short-travel 29ers is unridable*

PB staffers' real world rides: *50/50 on wheel size and mostly longer travel*

Wink
  • 4 0
 So other than a Saint crank and some pedals no Shimano?
  • 4 0
 I thought Jason Lucas only rides park (park park park park park)
  • 2 0
 Not sure, but would think Brian at PB is a big fan of "Park" riding...
  • 1 1
 @RowdyAirTime: you are familiar with the "I only ride park" song by IFHT, Jason's past involvement, right?
  • 3 1
 Strange how two of the team members are going from two bikes frome one "do it all" bike...
Why not have two specific bikes if you can afford it?
  • 8 0
 I guess they only want one bike...?
  • 8 0
 My RMB Maiden got traded in for a KTM XC250 this year. It's like a really heavy DH bike that goes up hills fast...So technically...
  • 2 2
 Right?! A "one bike quiver" can not tackle WC DH trails. Or 60ft BC gaps. I don't get the hype...
  • 5 1
 Not one BigHit? This is some kind of joke right?
  • 8 2
 Or a Kona stinky. Where the real riders at?
  • 1 0
 @thenotoriousmic: amen
  • 2 0
 must be great to have so many different people with different approaching to Mtb, expectations and experience in one team. Cheers.
  • 1 0
 If I was working at Pinkbike, I'm asking for all the hookups for top shelf bikes and components. You know, it would be to enlighten my mind of all the latest gear as a Pinkbike employee. Doesn't hurt to ask. Wink
  • 2 2
 What no eBikes? But I thought they were going to save the bike industry? Some of your advertisers are going to be making a phone call asking why you are not pushing the eBike when that was specifically in the ad contracts you signed.
  • 2 1
 The suspense, as I was scrolling down, hoping that at least one of these people gets it and rides a steel ht... Ok, it's a dirt jumper but will do.
  • 3 0
 Didn’t know pb even had a developer
  • 3 0
 Not a single piece of Kashima anywhere....
  • 6 0
 OMG SO EXPENSIVE
  • 1 0
 @sarahlukas: Haha YUP! ts a big upcharge for a little bit of shiny. But some people think Kashima will make them faster/cooler haha.
  • 8 0
 #cloutcoating
  • 3 0
 @ianswilson815: I 100% think I would be faster/cooler with Kashima. But until then, I get what I get... grumble grumble.
  • 1 0
 i wanted to post this
  • 1 0
 @ianswilson815: It's only $90. Not a small amount, but not crazy either. Not like they're asking $200...
  • 2 0
 @ianswilson815: Faster? No. Cooler? Hey yeah. Almost as cool as Envy wheels or CeramicSpeed stickers that come with the CeramicSpeed bearings!

(and yes, my 34 SC has cashmere or what ever it is called)
  • 3 0
 @mybaben: Just not necessary - while ya definitely can shell out the extra dough, I'd rather put it towards my donuts....but Kashima looks sooo good.

Donuts...Kashima...donuts...Kashima...dog food...Kashima...
  • 1 0
 @sarahlukas: LOL! I agree, it's not really necessary. I was just remarking on cost. Some peeps think Fox charges a ton for it, but they really don't. Of course money is all relative... Smile
  • 3 0
 It's obvious Kate moonlights as a Dentist #teamyeti
  • 3 0
 Hey Levy - You are batting well above your weight. Well done my man!!!
  • 3 0
 seems like PB hates Shimano
  • 2 0
 Some very nice bikes guys, but I gotta same that Rocky mountain slayer hands down is my favorite
  • 1 0
 Didn’t the Rocky Mountain slayer nearly kill Jason in the park this year when it failed during testing ?! Cool to see he’s still loyal to the brand !
  • 1 0
 Disclaimer. Nobody at pinkbike is hooked up by Sram and an unbiased review of which products go in the bin at the warranty department 10-1 on any other brand is on the way.
  • 1 0
 Well someone forgot to change the photo for the Trek lol Good read though!
  • 2 0
 Looks like you got a preference for flat pedals...
  • 1 0
 I don't know how. But the yeti wins in my books by a mile. Shocking for me.
  • 2 0
 Afraid of Sarah! Especially because of being a non-E... @sarahlukas
  • 1 0
 *kisses*
  • 2 0
 Dad.....I see Sram brakes everywhere......
  • 5 6
 Brie... strange for a first name. Being named as a french cheese sounds kind of weird to me. If I had kids, I could have called them Camembert and Reblochon... or Stilton and Cheddar... why not? :-)
  • 9 0
 Actually its a name you hear quite frequently. Usually short for Brianna or something. In the mean time, maybe you should worry about trying to harden your steel??
  • 2 1
 @pargolf8: Can`t be worse than Dick Pound.

PS: heart of steel / carbon reluctant
  • 5 0
 Short form for Brianna....mon Dieu!
  • 1 0
 @softsteel: Yes, it can. How about "Dick Trickle"!

Ok, but don't leave it out in the rain...
  • 1 0
 Looks like the weather changed drastically cold or cleared up real quick during the photo shoot!
  • 2 1
 Squamish weather is wild. Make sure you have a parka, rain jacket, snow suit, and summer jersey for your rides.
  • 1 0
 The Steel Cromag Monk. Respect. That bike only cooks if the pilot has skill.
  • 1 0
 No weights? gotta keep 6ft from a scale. Come on pinkbike I expected better
  • 2 0
 Mitch Gulliver build wins! Sexy bike, awesome parts and a dog!
  • 1 1
 Where’s the part about HOW they managed to pay for such pricey and flashy bikes .
We’re they gifts from the manufacturer in exchange for free ads?
  • 1 0
 Uuuuuuum, the work they do at PB that rewards their time and talents into $$??
  • 1 0
 Those red Pinkbike jackets tho....swoon
  • 1 1
 Not gonna lie, I would make fun of anyone who wears one of those. Those are fine for a trade show booth only
  • 3 0
 7mesh offers the jacket unbranded - if you likey
  • 1 1
 you need the sales guys on ebikes, or they wont understand how they can sell that aspect of the business as well...
  • 1 0
 But where can I get that red pinkbike jacket???????
  • 1 0
 7mesh!!
  • 1 0
 unbranded, though
  • 2 5
 Every normal sized employee withe codes then 2 guides for the light weights... no shimano, no Mt trails.... maybe its time for a bias brake review about sram brakes....just do a video on the owners of the bikes, would take 5 minutes of your time...
  • 1 2
 Is Jason's bike a mullet? If so, let out the most interesting bits, changes to facilitate that...BS pinkbike! We need more articles on this customization..
  • 2 1
 There are no developers on pinkbike ?
  • 1 0
 They were looking for one at some point (PHP MySQL etc...) www.pinkbike.com/about/jobs

Developers salaries are more dentist like those days.
  • 2 1
 See guys? More than half the PB staff don't ride Gucci bikes.
  • 3 1
 Those are all some pretty dang nice/new bikes, and carbon frames and rims all over the place.
  • 1 0
 @pacificnorthwet: those are all at least 30% off on competitive cyclist right now. Pre-cv
  • 1 0
 I see a lack of chain guides. But no lack of people would love bikes!
  • 1 0
 Those are Elixir 7s, not Juicy 7s bra.
  • 1 1
 Guys? you at PB cant recognise Nomad VS Megatower? Big Grin Amars bike is not Nomad Big Grin Look at the photos or even his texts Smile
  • 1 0
 Yo what about their height, weight, frame size, and shock pressure?
  • 1 0
 also article says Amar Murthi rides a Nomad, but the decal says Megatower, and Amar says its a Megatower in the quote thing
  • 1 0
 "Always own a hardtail." Bravo Max, words to live by.
  • 1 0
 Almost everyone on flat pedals. Interesting
  • 2 0
 I'd guess that's true for a lot of Squamish (and the rest of the Sea to Sky corridor) riders.
  • 1 0
 Cool read. How do I get one of those red jackets?
  • 1 0
 Where do I get a 165mm Lyrik?
  • 1 0
 Where's all the Ka$hima, bro?
  • 1 0
 @sarahlukas Dropping the guys on e-bikes during staff rides?! Nice!
  • 1 0
 Good1
  • 9 9
 Must pay like a dentist to work at pinkbike
  • 21 1
 Or...industry deals are really good and get you more bike for your coin.
  • 26 2
 Or they just set their priorities differently.
  • 9 2
 @vinay: exactly, living in one room with only the basics, no job at the moment, but still smashing my SB6
  • 2 0
 @vinay:

True, I have to re-prioritise
  • 1 0
 That why there are no really sweet bikes around the Brits? :-)
  • 2 0
 @vinay: You literally just collapsed The Dentist Bicycle Ownership Theory.
  • 1 0
 Andy Daly knows tyres…
  • 2 4
 Seems like PB gets a pretty good Santa Cruz pro-deal, maybe you just form relationships with companies when you work with them like PB does and they give you sick deals.
  • 1 0
 Thought the same thing. “Oh look at who offers ep’s”. Delightfully generic bikes. Figures the product manager is the only one who did something creative and put a tube in the upper link.
  • 1 0
 @usedbikestuff: oh I wasn't trying to say there's anything wrong with that, and their bikes look sweet. I work in a shop and get pro-deals too, was just thinking out loud
  • 6 8
 Never understand bikes where you spent a ton on carbon wheels with nice hubs but you're running a GX drivetrain and performance suspension haha
  • 9 0
 Because wheels make a much huger difference in ride quality vs component level? As far as suspension... I don’t see anything that’s crap here.
  • 2 0
 I just don’t see the value in paying for a drivetrain that’s does the exact same thing with a little less weight for a lot more money ... but the suspension I don’t get that at all.
  • 1 0
 @JodyLeeJr: I totally agree about the drivetrain versus wheels but you could do a lot better than Fox Performance forks.
  • 1 0
 code rsc...best brakes 3
  • 1 1
 One set of clip pedals between all ya'll ? So proud
  • 4 0
 Frown
  • 1 1
 Boo!!! Way too much SRAM drivetrain!
  • 1 1
 Wonder why sales and marketing team are running full sram / rs
  • 1 2
 So the new metric of measurement is no longer a 'dentist', it's a 'Pinkbike staff member'.
  • 1 1
 Boring, mostly big brand name bikes.
  • 1 0
 That's a lot of plastic
  • 1 0
 no Commencal? Frown
  • 4 5
 Kate Gayton....Operations / Dentist
  • 2 3
 Need to see more hardtails!
  • 1 2
 Not a single Specialized. How disappointing.
  • 1 4
 $5 says Mitch is the first to get an ebike. No way that man wants to go back to riding up hills.
  • 5 1
 I bought a dirtbike this year, I like to call it my Ebike. Does that count?
  • 1 1
 @mitchgulliver: I reckon it would be awesome to see what other non-mtb bikes staff have. I’m pro ebike and actually disappointed no one here has one when they are becoming a big part of the mtb scene. I guess that’s what you get when you live in areas with great shuttle/lift access.
  • 1 4
 2 Rocky Mountain bikes after thier broke sleyer frame ? Short memory i guess
  • 2 5
 Posing with the seat slammed to the deck looks so kook.
  • 10 1
 We're all kooks and so are you.
  • 2 0
 @mikelevy: that’s why I’m here bro!
  • 1 4
 Barron for president!
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